PTTK Skrzyczne Shelter

The PTTK Skrzyczne Shelter, located in the Silesian Beskids at an altitude of 1250 meters above sea level, is an excellent example of a mountain tourist shelter that combines rich history with modern amenities. Its history dates back to the 1930s when Rudolf Urbanke built a wooden shelter, which, due to its architecture, did not blend in with the surrounding landscape. After a fire in the mid-1930s, the shelter was rebuilt, but during World War II, it was occupied by German troops. After the war, despite damage and the looting of equipment, the building was taken over by the Upper Silesian Branch of PTT and renovated twice, which allowed for the restoration of its tourist functions. In later years, a significant increase in the number of tourists occurred after the opening of the chairlift to Skrzyczne, leading to the introduction of electricity and numerous modernizations. As a result of a major renovation in 1998, the shelter gained a modern appearance, transforming into a comfortable place for tourists to stay, with 29 sleeping accommodations and amenities such as sanitary facilities. Interestingly, the buffet on the viewing terrace now operates only during the summer season, attracting lovers of beautiful views and mountain hikes. The PTTK Skrzyczne Shelter is an important element of tourist culture in the region, combining mountain traditions with modernity, serving as a meeting place for tourists from various parts of Poland.